West Virginia -(Ammoland.com)- “Who cooks for me, who cooks for you all?” What raptor says this phrase?

To learn the answer, come to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park Sunday, Aug. 22, for the Birds of Prey educational program featuring live birds.

“Ron and Wendy Perrone of Three Rivers Avian Center will discuss habitat, diet, and behavior of each bird presented” said Pam Salisbury, activities coordinator at Blennerhassett Island. “They talk about some of the most common injuries to each species and discuss how they work with birds at the rehabilitation center.”

To arrive in time for the free Birds of Prey program, board the noon or 1 p.m. boat to the island from Point Park in Parkersburg. The program will be held on the island at 1:30 p.m. The ride on the sternwheeler Island Belle is $10 for adults, $8 for children 3-12 and $9 for seniors. Sternwheeler tickets are sold at the Blennerhassett Museum, located at 137 Juliana Street in downtown Parkersburg. For more information about Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and programs, call 304-420-4800 or visit www.blennerhassettislandstatepark.com.

About Three Rivers Avian Center

Three Rivers Avian Center (TRAC) is dedicated to providing veterinary and rehabilitative care to threatened wild birds as well as to educating and involving the public in ecosystem stewardship. From hummingbirds to eagles, wading birds to soaring birds, TRAC cares for each species’ individual requirements; including diet, perching, water access, caging substrates, light levels and behavioral needs.

Three Rivers Avian Center is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to wild bird conservation as well as educating and involving people in ecosystem stewardship since 1990. Ron and Wendy Perrone operate TRAC, which is located in Brooks, West Virginia. The website is www.tracwv.org.

Michigan -(Ammoland.com)- The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has awarded 16 grantees in 15 counties a total of $249,190 to develop Michigan’s newest (and longest) trail, the Iron Belle.

Each grant recipient was awarded up to $25,000 for planning, engineering and design projects along either the hiking route or the bicycle route of Michigan’s Iron Belle Trail. The funds were part of the 2015 budget for the nonmotorized trail program.

The DNR has selected projects throughout the state that will develop the trail network and further Michigan’s reputation as the Trails State. The following is a list of counties where trail projects will be funded (recipients of the grants), award amounts and brief descriptions of the projects:

Shelby Township (Macomb County) – $20,000 to design and build a 10-foot-wide, nonmotorized asphalt trail that eventually will provide a connection from the existing trail in River Bends Park to Gene Shepherd Park in Shelby.

Brandon/Groveland Township (Oakland County) – $14,800 to conduct a route-planning study for 5.5 miles of trail through Brandon Township and 1 mile through Groveland Township. The project includes cost estimates, right-of-way meetings, public meetings and mapping.

Plainfield Township (Iosco County) – $18,500 to conduct a route–planning study to connect Plainfield Township trail to a segment of the Iron Belle.

Crawford County Road Commission (Crawford County) – $25,000 to conduct preliminary engineering for a 40-mile trail connecting North Higgins Lake State Park, the city of Grayling, Hartwick Pines State Park and Otsego Lake State Park.

County of Otsego (Otsego County) – $20,000 to develop alternatives for a downtown trailhead along the Iron Belle.

City of Gladstone (Delta County) – $25,000 to complete engineering on 2.5 miles of Little Bay de Noc Trail, which will connect to the Iron Belle and provide access to waterfront in Delta County, as well as viewing and fishing platforms for trail users.

Michigan Western Gateway Trail Authority (Gogebic County) – $25,000 to fund 4.2 miles of engineering assistance for trail from Ironwood to Bessemer on existing railroad grade. Four bridges also require decking and handrail upgrades.

County of Marquette (Marquette County) – $14,500 to build and maintain new and existing sections of trail. Labor to be provided through Superior Watershed Partnership and Great Lakes Conservation Corps.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park (Chippewa County) – $3,300 to build a 250-foot, raised walkway on North Country National Scenic Trail.

City of Petoskey (Emmet County) – $10,000 to build a pedestrian bridge over Bear River on North Country National Scenic Trail, connecting the Petoskey River Road Sports Complex trail system to the North Central Michigan College Natural Area trail system.

The 2016 Michigan Duck Hunters Association Michigan Duck Stamp Competition and the 2015 Michigan Duck and Goose Calling Contest will be held during this event.

Michigan Duck Stamp Competition

The 2016 Michigan Duck Hunters Association Michigan Duck Stamp Competition, open to all artists, will be held Saturday, Aug. 1. This year’s competition will feature original artwork representing specific waterfowl species. All entries will be on display inside the Saginaw Bay Visitor Center auditorium, starting at 3:30 p.m. on the day of the event. Judging will begin at 4 p.m. The first-place entry will win a $2,500 cash prize; second place, $300; and third place, $200.

The Michigan Waterfowl Stamp program began 39 years ago to raise money for wetland habitat restoration and habitat acquisition for waterfowl. A portion of every waterfowl stamp purchased goes toward Michigan wetland habitat restoration. Over a million dollars has been raised for waterfowl conservation projects since the first stamp was issued in 1976. For more details on the 2016 Michigan Duck Stamp Competition, contact Ed Standler, Duck Stamp program coordinator, at989-545-9525 or yellowdawgg@hotmail.com. The deadline for entry is midnight July 31.

Michigan Duck and Goose Calling Contests

The 2015 Michigan Duck and Goose Calling Contest will be held Sunday, Aug. 2, beginning with the Goose Competition at 12:30 p.m. followed by the State Duck Competition at 1:30 p.m. The contests will be held at the outdoor stage arena on the Saginaw Bay Visitor Center festival grounds, located inside Bay City State Recreation Area. Entries will be accepted for both novice (a division for those who are just getting started in competition calling) and master’s (designed for callers who would like a chance to advance to national-level competitions) divisions. The event is fun to watch and a great way to improve waterfowl-calling skills. Spectators are welcome.

The Goose Calling Competition, open to any caller, has an entry fee of $25. The first-place goose caller will receive a $300 cash prize, trophy, prize package and points toward advancing to the national competition. The State Duck Calling Contest, open to Michigan residents, has an entry fee of $25. The first-place duck caller will win a $300 cash prize, trophy and prize package and will represent Michigan at the Stuttgart, Arkansas, World Championship Duck Calling Contest this fall.

For those who would like to get started calling or brush up on their calling skills, Cabela’s will sponsor Waterfowl Calling Clinics for both adult (12:30 p.m.Saturday and 9 a.m.Sunday) and youth (11:30 a.m.Saturday and 11 a.m.Sunday) waterfowl hunters. The clinics will introduce basic methods and techniques used in calling in ducks and geese. Registration for all of the above events will be taken the day of the event at the Friends of Bay City State Recreation Area information booth, located inside the park’s day-use area parking lot.

The Saginaw Bay Waterfowl Festival, open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Sunday, offers numerous programs, exhibits and competitions that focus on the ducks and geese that depend upon the wetlands of the Saginaw Bay Watershed for staging, nesting and breeding habitat. Visitors will be able to take part in a wide range of activities to help them become more aware of the sports of waterfowl watching and waterfowl hunting and the conservation and management of Michigan’s waterfowl resources. The event is co-sponsored by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the Michigan Duck Hunters Association, the Frank N. Andersen Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Cabela’s, Frank’s Great Outdoors and the Friends of Bay City State Recreation Area.

Dallas, TX -(AmmoLand.com)- DSC is a financial supporter of lion conservation efforts by Oxford University, the prestigious institution responsible for collaring and studying the lion infamously poached near Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

In 2013-14, DSC awarded $20,000 in grants to Oxford for lion initiatives in and around Ruaha National Park in Tanzania.

In a grant request to DSC, Oxford researchers said the Ruaha area supports over 10 percent of the world’s remaining lions. However, populations are threatened by intensifying conflicts with livestock owners. Local hostility toward lions and other large carnivores results in the highest depredation mortality rates in East Africa, usually via spears or poisons. Over 30 lions were killed near one village in 2011 – truly a major conservation issue.

Granted funds from DSC were used to build predator proof enclosures for holding livestock overnight, provide veterinary medicines to reduce additional livestock losses from diseases, and educate communities about the value of lions.

Joining DSC in support for this effort were British Airways, National Geographic and several zoos and foundations.

Since launching in 2009, the Ruaha Carnivore Project has used these and other strategies to help reduce indiscriminate lion killing by 75 percent in the core study area. Researchers say over 70 percent of villagers now see benefit from the project’s activities.

Over the past five years, DSC has granted more than $5 million for various conservation, education and hunter advocacy efforts worldwide. Many of these grants were awarded for lion research and conservation initiatives.

About Dallas Safari Club (DSC)

Formally introduced in 2015 as an official member of the IUCN, the United Nations’ International Union for the Conservation of Nature, DSC is increasingly recognized as an international leader in conservation. DSC’s mission is conserving wildlife and wilderness lands, educating youth and the general public, and promoting and protecting the rights and interests of hunters worldwide.

Nebraska -(Ammoland.com)- Results of a survey indicate that northern bobwhite populations appear to be continuing their rebound in Nebraska following the severe winters of 2009-2010 and the severe drought of 2012-2013.

The observed increases of abundance from this summer’s northern bobwhite (quail) whistle count also imply that the population was not further set back by the heavy rains in May and June this year.

In 2015, the average number of male bobwhites heard calling per stop statewide – and in all management zones except the East Central – was higher than in 2014. The statewide and management zone numbers also were higher than the 2010-2014 average.

The whistle counts were conducted June 15-July 10 in each of the six bobwhite management zones (East Central, North Central, Northeast, Republican, Southeast and West Platte). This excludes northwest Nebraska, which is not bobwhite range. The survey does not provide information on bobwhite population size, but it is an index of breeding male abundance.

Rushford, MN -(AmmoLand.com)- Michael Sieve is pleased to announce the opening of his new gallery, Chisholm Valley Wildlife Art.

This gallery features Sieve’s originals, prints, and sculptures. It is located in the picturesque hill country of southeast Minnesota and is the culmination of a lifelong dream of Sieve’s to have his own art gallery.

Sieve began his career as a wildlife artist in 1979 and has since become recognized as one of the top big game artists in the country. Together with his publisher Wild Wings he has produced over 150 limited edition prints and has helped raise millions of dollars for conservation organizations. His works can be found in museums and private and public collections throughout the country.

The gallery itself has the look and feel of an old English gunroom and is meant to be a showpiece for wildlife art. The land, 185 acres with hardwood-covered hills, a valley, and a trout stream, is meant to be a showpiece of conservation practices in southeast Minnesota.

This fall Sieve and his wife Juli will be inviting the public to join them at their grand opening. This opening will take place on the first two weekends of September, and after that the gallery will be open by appointment. The gallery is located halfway between Houston and Rushford, just off Chisholm Road. The address is 22388 Daley Creek Drive, Rushford, MN 55971.

Lafayette, LA -(AmmoLand.com)- Louisiana Ducks Unlimited recognized Richard Zuschlag with the inaugural state chairman’s Ambassador to Conservation award during their state convention in Lafayette last weekend.

“I created this award with Richard in mind for all he has done as a supporter and champion for DU,” said Louisiana DU State Chairman Jay Owen. “It will now be given annually to recognize an individual who has shown dedication to the mission of Ducks Unlimited and has been a promoter of the organization and its work throughout Louisiana and North America.”

Richard Zuschlag co-founded Acadian Ambulance Service in 1971 and continues to serve as its chairman and chief executive officer. Acadian provides ground and air medical transportation services to millions of residents in Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. Richard is also owner of Grand View Lodge – a private hunting camp in Creole, Louisiana.

As an avid duck hunter, Richard understands and supports the DU mission.

“It is an honor for me to work with DU because I am a big believer in conservation. Ducks Unlimited has done a tremendous amount of work to help us restore our wetlands in Louisiana and throughout North America,” Zushlag said. “DU is one of the most respected and admired conservation organizations around because they are able to bring all stakeholders together, from government officials and private donors to scientists and think tanks, all with the single purpose to maximize our conservation efforts.”

A Ducks Unlimited Legacy Sponsor and charter member of the President’s Council, Richard repeatedly opens Grande View Lodge to DU for executive volunteer meetings, donor stewardship hunts, and staff retreats. Last fall, he hosted a DU fundraiser on the opening weekend of waterfowl season featuring his friend, former Vice President Dick Cheney.

“The importance of Richard’s generosity to Ducks Unlimited can’t be overstated,” said DU Managing Director of Development Chad Manlove. “Without dedicated conservationists like Richard, DU wouldn’t be able to meet our mission of conserving waterfowl habitat across North America.”

About Ducks Unlimited, Inc.

Ducks Unlimited, Inc. is the world’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has conserved more than 13 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science and dedicated to program efficiency, DU works toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever. Connect with us on our Facebook page at facebook.com/DucksUnlimited, follow our tweets at twitter.com/DucksUnlimited and watch DU videos at youtube.com/DucksUnlimitedInc.

Los Lunas, NM -(AmmoLand.com)- Everyone who hunts has dreamed about that monster trophy buck that we hope to get a crack at some day.

However, have you ever given any thought as to how they get so big? While studying wildlife management in college many years ago, I was intrigued by the predator/prey relationship and how it affected the populations of animals. Left to their own devices (i.e., without human intervention), animal populations are subject to significant cyclic variations.

As the prey (deer) increased in numbers, so did their predators (wolves, pumas, etc). Then, as the predators continued to multiply given the abundance of food, their food supply (deer) began to dwindle. With the decrease in their food supply, a decrease in predator numbers followed. These cycles were often wild in their fluctuations and rarely resulted in a stable population of either deer or predators.

In the absence of predators (including hunters), deer populations will still undergo substantial cyclic fluctuations. This time the cycles occur when population numbers which exceed the carrying capacity of the environment. Under those circumstances, starvation and disease devastate the population and numbers drop drastically; e.g. the Kaibab deer in Arizona.

The point of both examples is that deer populations (elk, antelope, etc), when left to the tender mercies of nature are never stable. The numbers fluctuate from unsustainable highs to unacceptable lows. Enter scientific wildlife management techniques.

Predator Prey Cycle

Game ranches and hunting reserves, in the United States and Africa, utilize wildlife management techniques designed to maintain populations at the highest sustainable levels without wild cyclic fluctuations. To accomplish this, the herds are “culled” on a regular basis. This management process requires the harvest of excess animals (both trophy and non-trophy) to insure that the remaining herds are healthy and have sufficient food and habitat to survive.

In the absence of natural predators, there are only two choices: Pay professionals (with taxpayer money) to cull excess animals, or let sportsmen buy hunting licenses, clothes, rifles, etc.

The latter puts money into the economy, rather than taking it out.

Management Bucks

In short, hunters are an essential part of scientific wildlife management. If the anti-hunting fanatics of the world had their way, wildlife populations would fluctuate wildly and be subject to regular disease outbreaks and starvation. The “good” (and I use that word very loosely) intentions of these misguided and ignorant folks are founded on junk science and ignorance. They probably went to school with the anti-gun crowd who believe that disarming law abiding citizens will reduce crime, although statistics clearly show otherwise.

License quotas in most states are based on the best information available to the management biologists (i.e., the number of animals which can/should be harvested to maintain a stable population). In addition to their regular trophy tags, game ranches and hunting reserves across the globe often have regular management hunts. These hunts are designed to harvest excess animals (usually non-trophy) to maintain the health of the overall population.

The hunt for these animals is every bit as challenging as for a 170+ whitetail deer, except their antlers won’t make the record books. Even so, their racks make fine skull mounts to preserve the memories of your hunt. So, the next time that you head out for a fall hunt; remember, harvesting a “non-trophy” deer is just as important to the overall welfare of the population as taking that monster wall hanger.

The three whitetails pictured above were taken by my wife and daughter during a management hunt in south Texas. The decision was made by the ranch manager that their genetics were not desirable, hence the management hunt. Mary and Susannah had a wonderful four-day hunt, taking the three whitetails and a surplus cow elk.

Our freezer is full of meat for the winter and the herd is better off.

]]>http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/conservation-and-management-deer-hunts/feed/0AmmoLand-2014-LogoAmmoLand Gun NewsPredator-Prey-CycleManagement-BucksManagement BucksTim Bonner Announced As New Chief Executive Of The Countryside Alliancehttp://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/tim-bonner-announced-as-new-chief-executive-of-the-countryside-alliance/
http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/tim-bonner-announced-as-new-chief-executive-of-the-countryside-alliance/#commentsThu, 30 Jul 2015 18:16:05 +0000http://www.ammoland.com/?p=227200Tim Bonner Announced As New Chief Executive Of The Countryside AllianceCountryside Alliance Ireland

Ireland – -(Ammoland.com)- The Countryside Alliance has announced that Sir Barney White-Spunner will be stepping down as its Executive Chairman after the AGM in September.

The Board has appointed Director of Campaigns, Tim Bonner, to take charge as Chief Executive from that time.

Sir Barney has spent three and a half years at the head of Britain’s largest rural campaigning organisation and Countryside Alliance chairman, Lord Mancroft, commented;

“Barney has brought much needed stability to the organisation and wrestled with some of the most intractable issues facing the British countryside. He has also started restructuring us so that we are fit to face the challenges of campaigning in the digital 21st century world. We are hugely grateful for his efforts.”

“The Board was able to appoint an exceptional internal candidate in Tim Bonner who will provide continuity whilst pushing forward the evolution of the Alliance and its campaigns.”

Commenting on his new appointment, Tim Bonner said, “This is a huge honour, but most of all a huge responsibility. I am constantly aware of the hundreds of thousands of Countryside Alliance members and supporters who rely on us to give them a voice. The Alliance will always focus on the core political and campaigning work it does best, but must also change to face new challenges.”

On behalf of our Board and members, Countryside Alliance Ireland would like to wish Tim the very best in his new role and we look forward to working with him in benefiting the rural communities throughout the UK and Ireland.

Countryside Alliance Ireland also wish to convey thanks to Sir Barney White-Spunner for the dedication and commitment he has shown during his time with the Countryside Alliance and wish him every success in the future.

About
Countryside Alliance Ireland has been active since the early 1960s, providing Irish sportsmen and women with high levels of information and advice and representation. Over the years as the political environment has changed we have evolved into a highly effective campaigning organisation. Countryside Alliance Ireland is governed by an elected “Board” made up from members throughout Ireland. The Board sets policy and oversees financial and operational matters. Countryside Alliance Ireland partner groups nominate members of the “Board” also, making it truly representative of country sports interests in Ireland. Visit: www.countrysideallianceireland.org

]]>http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/tim-bonner-announced-as-new-chief-executive-of-the-countryside-alliance/feed/0Tim-BonnerTim Bonner Announced As New Chief Executive Of The Countryside AllianceCountryside-Alliance-Ireland-LogoCountryside Alliance IrelandAgents Cited Two Louisiana Men for Stolen Alligator Eggshttp://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/agents-cited-two-louisiana-men-for-stolen-alligator-eggs/
http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/agents-cited-two-louisiana-men-for-stolen-alligator-eggs/#commentsThu, 30 Jul 2015 18:00:37 +0000http://www.ammoland.com/?p=227201Agents Cited Two Men for Stolen Alligator EggsLouisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

Louisiana -(Ammoland.com)- Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agents cited two men for taking alligator eggs without a valid egg collection permit.

Agents cited Paul A. Canik, 47, of Grand Chenier and Christopher M. Trahan, 24, of Lake Charles for illegal possession of alligator eggs and not abiding by rules and regulations on a refuge.

On July 16, agents stopped the pair as they were exiting the marsh in an airboat and flatboat. At the time, Canik explained the eggs were taken from areas he was permitted to collect eggs from. Upon further investigation, the agents were able to determine the nest sites where the eggs had been removed. These locations were not part of the area Canik had been permitted to collect from.

On July 21, agents cited Canik and Trahan and seized 523 alligator eggs, a 18’ aluminum boat and a 14’ airboat. The eggs were sold at market value for a total of $10,460.

Louisiana Alligator Eggs

First offense for taking unpermitted alligator eggs carries a $400 to $900 fine and up to 120 days in jail.

This second case is a 2-year-old male found less than a mile from the initial positive female deer, confirmed this past May. Genetic testing is being conducted to see if the two deer are related.

“Finding this second positive deer is disappointing, however, not unexpected,” said DNR Wildlife Division Chief Russ Mason. “We will continue with our aggressive surveillance throughout the summer and fall. With the assistance of hunters, we hope to determine the distribution of this disease.”

To date, 304 deer have been tested in the Core CWD Area. Only two have tested positive for CWD.

Upon the finding of the initial CWD positive deer, the DNR established the CWD Management Zone consisting of Clinton, Ingham and Shiawassee counties.

Additionally, the Core CWD Area consisting of Lansing, Meridian, Williamstown, Delhi, Alaiedon and Wheatfield townships in Ingham County; DeWitt and Bath townships in Clinton County; and Woodhull Township in Shiawassee County, was created. Feeding and baiting of deer and elk are prohibited in the CWD Management Zone. Mandatory checking of deer will be required in the Core CWD Area during hunting seasons and restrictions will apply to the movement of carcasses and parts of deer taken in this area.

“Michigan has a long tradition of hunter support and conservation ethics. Now, with these CWD findings, that support is needed more than ever,” said Steve Schmitt, veterinarian-in-charge at the DNR Wildlife Disease Lab. “Because hunters are often familiar with the deer herd locally, one of the best things they can do to help manage this disease is to continue hunting and bring their deer to check stations this season.”

In the Core CWD Area, there is an unlimited antlerless deer license quota and the deer license or deer combo licenses may be used to harvest antlerless or any antlered deer during firearm and muzzleloading seasons. Additional deer-check stations will be established in the Core CWD Area and the CWD Management Zone to accommodate hunters.

To date, there is no evidence that chronic wasting disease presents any risk to non-cervids, including humans, either through contact with an infected animal or from handling contaminated venison. However, as a precaution, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization recommend that infected animals not be consumed as food by either humans or domestic animals.

The DNR asks that the public and hunters continue to report deer that are unusually thin and exhibiting unusual behavior (for example, acting tame around humans and allowing someone to approach).

To report a suspicious-looking deer, call the DNR Wildlife Disease Lab at 517-336-5030 or fill out and submit the online observation report, found on the DNR website.

DNR staff will continue with road-kill collection in the Core CWD Area. To report road-kills found in the Core CWD Area call the Wildlife Disease Hotline at 517-614-9602. Leave a voicemail with location information and staff will attempt to pick up carcasses on the next open business day.

Missoula, MT -(AmmoLand.com)- The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation partnered with a conservation-minded family and the U.S. Forest Service to permanently protect 317 acres of prime elk habitat in Montana’s Elkhorn Mountains.

“We are grateful to the Williams family for their desire and commitment to protect and conserve this inholding within the Elkhorn Mountain Range,” said Blake Henning, RMEF vice president of Lands and Conservation. “This is crucial elk winter range that is also home to mule and whitetail deer, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, bear and a wide variety of other wildlife and bird species.”

The property is about 14 miles west of Townsend in the Missouri River-Canyon Ferry Lake Valley. It is also located in the southwestern section of the Elkhorn Wildlife Management Unit which is well-known to sportsmen and women as a prime area for trophy bull elk.

RMEF supervised the purchase of the land and will convey it to the Helena National Forest for public use.

“The Jenkins Gulch property, as it is called, has never been open to the public but now it will be accessible year-round for hunting, hiking, camping and other recreational outings. More importantly, since it is now permanently protected, there is no longer a potential threat of development which could have led to a loss of habitat,” added Henning.

Aside from the Williams family, conservation partners and supporters include the Land and Water Conservation Fund through the Helena National Forest as well as the Montana Fish and Wildlife Conservation Trust (MFWCT), Mule Deer Foundation, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Broadwater and Jefferson County Commissioners, and Elkhorn Restoration and Working Groups.

“The Montana Fish Wildlife and Conservation Trust is very pleased to be a part of the Jenkins Gulch critical inholding acquisition. This parcel was our flagship project for 2015 and helps to ensure that the Forest Service can manage habitat, wildlife, access and recreation for the benefit of the public,” said Bill Orsello, MFWCT chairman.

Since 1985, RMEF and its partners have completed 862 conservation and hunting heritage outreach projects in Montana with a combined value of more than $149 million.

These projects have protected or enhanced 781,157 acres of habitat, of which 228,519 acres have been opened or secured for public access.

About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Founded over 30 years ago, fueled by hunters and a membership of more than 205,000 strong, RMEF has conserved more than 6.6 million acres for elk and other wildlife. RMEF also works to open and improve public access, fund and advocate for science-based resource management, and ensure the future of America’s hunting heritage.

Discover why “Hunting Is Conservation” at www.RMEF.org or 800-CALL ELK.

Gilbert, AZ –-(Ammoland.com)- After over a year’s delay, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s proposed regulation that would virtually ban the interstate trade in ivory, including knives with ivory handles and embellishments, has been published in the Federal Register.

Knife Rights Chairman Doug Ritter explained, “Knife owners, knifemakers, scrimshaw artists and suppliers will all be hit hard if the rule is allowed to go into effect as it is proposed. While there are some exceptions allowed in this proposed ivory ban, they are very narrow and the overall impact is as bad as expected for honest owners of decades-old legal ivory.”

A 60-day comment period is provided.

Knife Rights abhors the poaching of all species. The proven solution is to attack poaching at the source, not punish lawful ivory owners in the U.S. who cannot have any effect on poaching in Africa. Successful anti-poaching programs have demonstrated that an integrated comprehensive approach that encourages the locals to fight poaching does work. This is the sort of solution that should be expanded and encouraged by the U.S. and by all who really want to end poaching.

Knife Rights is working with our partners in the many organizations opposed to this rule to develop effective, well-reasoned and coherent arguments against this rule that we’ll ask you to submit as comments over the next two months. That will take some time to put together.

The most important thing concerned citizens can do right now is to contact your U.S. Representative and Senators to ask them to co-sponsor the African Elephant Conservation and Legal Ivory Possession Act of 2015 which would protect honest U.S. ivory owners while providing for additional conservation and anti-poaching efforts in Africa. Click for more information.

This proposed regulation is based on three FALSE premises being promoted by the Administration for entirely political purposes:

Elephant poaching in Africa is escalating

Truth: CITES data shows poaching numbers have been falling since 2011 due to enhanced enforcement of existing law

Large amounts of illegal ivory are being imported into the United States that are driving the elephant poaching problems in Africa

Truth: both CITES and U.S. data show that illicit ivory imports to the U.S. are insignificant, it is Chinese demand fueling the poaching

By punishing Americans, the Chinese consumers who are really fueling the poaching problems will abandon their cultural affinity for ivory

Truth: Chinese demand for illicit ivory is independent from U.S. trade in domestic decades-old legal ivory

There is a lot to digest in this proposed regulation. The bottom line is that USFWS Director Dan Ashe has stated that the goal of the regulation is to implement a near complete ban on the domestic commercial trade of ivory. While the federal government does not have the power to stop trade within states, it is trying to end interstate trade (trade across state lines) in ivory that is decades-old and absolutely legal today to sell and trade.

Ritter explained, “There is no evidence that this ban would save a single elephant in Africa, but it will take millions of dollars in value from honest Americans.”

There is more in this rule than can be described in one email blast, but an important addition to what has come before is a new de minimis exemption. To dilute political opposition to the rule, particularly from this Administration’s key supporters, USFWS is proposing an exception for a narrow category of already manufactured items that contain less than 200 grams (7.05 oz.) of ivory.

Engraved Remington Rider Magazine Pistol with Rare Ivory Grips

However, the exemption sounds better than it really is and there are some very strict and narrow criteria for the exemption. One critical criteria hasn’t even been established yet and ivory owners would have to wait on that from the USFWS until AFTER the rule is put into force! (If that sounds somewhat familiar to other rulemaking and legislative efforts by this Administration that have not turned out well, it should.):

If the item is located within the United States, the ivory was imported into the United States prior to January 18, 1990, or was imported into the United States under a Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) pre-Convention certificate with no limitation on its commercial use;

If the item is located outside the United States, the ivory was removed from the wild prior to February 26, 1976;

The ivory is a fixed component or components of a larger manufactured item and is not in its current form the primary source of the value of the item;

The ivory is not raw;

The manufactured item is not made wholly or primarily of ivory;

The total weight of the ivory component or components is less than 200 grams; and

The item was manufactured before the effective date of the final rule.

This exemption attempts to appease musicians and a limited number of other groups. It potentially might include some of the ivory handled and embellished knives owned by Americans. As noted, however, there are serious shortcomings to this exemption.

Problems include:

Sellers are still burdened with documentation requirements to prove they fit within the exemption and nobody will know for certain what this documentation will be until after the rule is put into effect! Nothing suggests that USFWS would be any more accommodating with regards to documentation than in its past positions and that means that very few individuals will be able to gain acceptable documentation, in large part since no documentation was previously required for these manufactured goods, so it simply doesn’t exist

There is no provision for repair or restoration of ivory components

The method for measuring ivory to determine whether an item qualifies has not been defined

We will provide recommended comments to address these and other issues over the next two months. You will be able to submit more than one comment and we can respond to comments made by others as long as comments are received by the end of the comment period, September 28th.

Right now, the very best action you can take is to CALL or EMAIL your Representative and Senators and ask them to Co-Sponsor the African Elephant Conservation and Legal Ivory Possession Act of 2015 (H.R. 697 or S.1769, respectively) to protect both elephants and Americans. You can find your U.S. legislators and send them all an email here: www.democracy.io

About:
Knife Rights (www.KnifeRights.org) is America’s Grassroots Knife Owners Organization, working towards a Sharper Future for all knife owners. Knife Rights is dedicated to providing knife owners an effective voice in public policy. Become a Knife Rights member and make a contribution to support the fight for your knife rights. Visit www.kniferights.org

Lousiana -(Ammoland.com)- A Wood Stork and Wading Bird Event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8, within the South Farm area of Sherburne Wildlife Management Area.

The South Farm area is located in Iberville Parish and accessible via I-10.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are hosting this seasonal event from 7 a.m. tonoon. Wood storks and other wading and shore birds are readily visible at this time due to the management provided by Wildlife Division staff. A number of large moist soil impoundments are flooded in the fall to provide habitat for water birds, especially shorebirds and waterfowl. Aside from seed bearing herbaceous plants, the developed habitat contains an abundance of small fish and crawfish, ideal food sources for wading birds.

The South Farm impoundments are drawn down in mid-summer to enhance the growth of wetland plants for wintering waterfowl. The drawdown period is extended almost a month at times due to the size of the impoundments and the management strategy which is focused on providing mud flats and very shallow water with concentrated prey for shorebirds (sandpipers) and wading birds (egrets, herons, spoonbills, storks and ibis).

The wood stork is the only stork native to North America. These large wading birds, which can grow to 4 feet tall with a 66-inch wingspan, are an indicator of the condition of our nation’s wetlands. As wetlands disappeared, wood stork numbers also diminished. Although many of these birds are from Mexico, the water management units at the South Farm are becoming more critical habitat for the species survival.

With only a few thousand of these birds left in the wild, this event provides an excellent opportunity for bird watchers, photographers and anyone who enjoys wildlife. The South Farm habitat also attracts alligators, white-tailed deer and many other species of birds. Individuals and professionals will be on hand to discuss the management of the area and provide wildlife identification assistance.

Participants are advised to arrive early for improved wood stork viewing opportunities.

Driving directions to the South Farm: Take I-10 to the Ramah exit (Exit 135); drive north to the first road on the left, then turn right by the market on Mimms Street; cross the bridge and turn right on the lower Atchafalaya Levee Road, a gravel road. Drive approximately one mile or until you see the “South Farm” sign, cross over the levee and enter the parking lot. Event coordinators will be there to provide additional information.

There are no fees associated with this program, but participants are reminded that anyone between the ages of 16 and 60 is required to have either a valid Louisiana
Hunting or Fishing License, or a Wild Louisiana Stamp to visit an LDWF Wildlife Management Area. These can be purchased at any license vendor selling LDWF hunting or fishing licenses, on-line at http://www.wlf.la.gov or by phone at 1-888-765-
2602.

For more information about the South Farm birding event, call the LDWF Wildlife Division Opelousas Field Office at 337-948-0255.

Bismarck, ND -(AmmoLand.com)- Delta Waterfowl is taking a key step in the organization’s continued growth with the formation of state committees in Louisiana and North Carolina.

State committees will serve several important functions, such as to identify local and regional issues important to duck hunters, expand Delta’s First Hunt recruitment program and assist in chapter fundraising efforts.

“One of the main benefits I see is in sharing of information, ideas and resources among chapters,” said Chris Williams, senior regional director for North Carolina.

Both states have a strong network of active Delta chapters backed by a core of hard-working volunteers.

“A lot of these guys have been with Delta for 10 years or more,” said Bryan Leach, senior regional director for Louisiana. “We appreciate their willingness to step up to form our state committees and to build a stronger Delta Waterfowl.”

Each chapter will have one representative on the state committee. The executive committee will include a state chairman, vice chairman, First Hunt/Waterfowl Heritage Fund chairman and a policy/advocacy chairman.

For Louisiana, Brandon Broussard (Abbeville Chapter) is the state chairman. Corry Landry (Lafayette) will serve as vice chairman, Jonathan Jimney (Lake Charles) is First Hunt/WHF chairman, and Joey Gauthier (Mandeville) is policy/advocacy chairman.

In North Carolina, Brian McCoy (Lake Norman) is the state chairman. Jimmy Blalock (at-large) is vice chairman, Ryan Beamon (Sanoca Southern) is First Hunt/WHF chairman and Ches McDowell (Triangle) is policy/advocacy chairman.

About Delta Waterfowl Foundation

Delta Waterfowl Foundation is The Duck Hunters Organization, a leading conservation group working to produce ducks and ensure the tradition of duck hunting in North America.

Oskaloosa, IA -(AmmoLand.com)- Pheasants Forever and partners in Iowa have recently completed the acquisition of a new Wildlife Management Area in Mahaska County.

Officially dedicated as the North Skunk River Wildlife Area, the purchase of the 93-acre wildlife complex was spearheaded by the Mahaska County Chapter of Pheasants Forever, and will provide much-needed public hunting access and recreational opportunities along the North Skunk River.

The North Skunk River Wildlife Management Area is a vital addition to the future of the North Skunk River Greenbelt — a designated area of importance by the Mahaska County Conservation Board for long-range conservation plans in the county. In addition to supporting upland wildlife populations such as pheasants and quail, the North Skunk River Greenbelt is also a major migration corridor for many waterfowl, shore birds, and neotropical migrants. Permanently secured under an Emergency Watershed Protection easement, the land was purchased at a bargain price of only $809 per acre and will provide lasting benefits for hunters and residents of central Iowa.

“This acquisition will be a tremendous benefit to Mahaska County and will provide outdoor opportunities for future generations,” said Dave Sedivec, director of the Mahaska County Conservation Board. “My favorite aspect of this land purchase is the cooperation of numerous partners and several chapters of Pheasants Forever. On behalf of the Mahaska County Conservation Board, I would like to thank all of the partners for making this project a reality.”

The Mahaska County Conservation Board, in conjunction with the Mahaska County Chapter of Pheasants Forever and the Oskaloosa Pioneering Ringnecks (student) Chapter of Pheasants Forever, plan to maintain and enhance the area through prairie plantings, prescribed burns, mowing, and timber stand improvements. The Wildlife Management Area is now open for public recreation and can be accessed two miles north of New Sharon on Highway 146, and one mile east of the highway on 110th street.

Partners involved with the North Skunk River Wildlife Area acquisition include: Mahaska County Chapter of Pheasants Forever, the State Council of Pheasants Forever in Iowa, Wapello County Chapter of Pheasants Forever, Warren County Chapter of Pheasants Forever, Cedar Creek Chapter of Pheasants Forever, Iowa County Chapter of Pheasants Forever, Iowa State University Chapter of Pheasants Forever, Oskaloosa Pioneering Ringnecks Chapter of Pheasants Forever, Mahaska County Izaak Walton League, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, and the Iowa Wildlife Habitat Stamp Fund.

About Pheasants Forever

Pheasants Forever, including its quail conservation division, Quail Forever, is the nation’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to upland habitat conservation. Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever have more than 140,000 members and 700 local chapters across the United States and Canada. Chapters are empowered to determine how 100 percent of their locally raised conservation funds are spent; the only national conservation organization that operates through this truly grassroots structure. Since creation in 1982, Pheasants Forever has spent $577 million on 489,000 habitat projects benefiting over 12 million acres nationwide.

Vermont -(Ammoland.com)- The Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department and Vermont chapters of the National Wild Turkey Federation are putting on a one-day “Women in the Outdoors” introductory course on Saturday, August 15 at Buck Lake in Woodbury.

“This is a great opportunity if you want to learn about some of the exciting outdoor activities we have in Vermont that enable us to actively enjoy our fish and wildlife resources,” said Nicole Corrao, a Fish & Wildlife Education Specialist. “We will have a guided wildlife identification walk, basic shooting instruction, turkey hunting tactics, fly fishing basics, and more – all taught by highly experienced instructors.”

The 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. course will be held at the Green Mountain Conservation Camp at Buck Lake in Woodbury. Women must be 18 years of age or older, although anyone younger may attend if accompanied by parent or guardian. Information is available on the Vermont Fish & Wildlife website (http://www.register-ed.com/events/view/65227). Pre-registration through Ron Lafreniere with the National Wild Turkey Federation costs $35. Registration fee includes lunch and all materials for the day.

For more information and to register, contact Ron at 802-434-4274.

“One of the nice take-away benefits of the course is that you will meet other women you will be able to network with in the future to share knowledge about these outdoor activities,” said Corrao.

Wildlife biologist Tim Keyes, wood stork survey leader for DNR’s Wildlife Resources Division, said aerial and ground surveys in May estimated 2,496 nests in 22 colonies. Follow-up surveys this month documented high productivity. The agency’s Nongame Conservation Section and partners such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service documented wood stork colonies in 12 counties, with surveys covering the coast and ranging as far north as Screven County in southeast Georgia and west to Mitchell County near the state’s southwestern corner.

The nest count is a drop from the record-setting 2,932 nests in 2014, but well above the totals of 1,873 in 2013 and 1,903 in 2012. Annual fluctuations are normal.

“It’s still a great year and a really good count,” said Keyes, who works with the division’s Nongame Conservation Section office in Brunswick.

In 2014, wood storks were down-listed from endangered to threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The reclassification has not changed protection or conservation measures.

This year, Keyes said a number of small colonies and one big colony in Berrien County were not used. Also, a small colony on Sapelo Island was abandoned in mid-season. But all of the largest colonies were active and produced many nests with more than one chick. Keyes is using follow-up surveys to estimate the number of young, many of which have already fledged.

Wood storks, America’s only true stork, are tall, bald-headed wading birds that nest in colonies over water and depend on wetlands for food. The birds feed by running their opened beak through the water and snapping it shut when it touches prey, a technique known as tacto-location.

The species was listed as endangered in 1984, with its population shrinking about 5 percent a year and projections marking it at risk of extinction by the year 2000. The decline was blamed on wetland habitat loss and alteration in Florida. Many wood storks now nest in Georgia, which has about 20 percent of the U.S. nesting population.

The Fish and Wildlife Service cited restoration efforts and more comprehensive population data, such as DNR’s surveys, in its decision to down-list wood storks to threatened last year.

WONDER OF WOOD STORKS

Wood storks use freshwater and estuarine wetlands for breeding, feeding and roosting.

They are colonial nesters – they nest in colonies – and several nests are often in the same tree.

The stick nests are built in trees over water, a setting in which alligators unwittingly help protect the eggs and chicks above from raccoons and other predators.

The first record of wood storks nesting in Georgia was in 1965 on Blackbeard Island.

This year, colonies in the state ranged in size from 442 nests at Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge in McIntosh County to 15 nests at a site on St. Catherines Island in Liberty County. Colonies were documented in 12 counties: Brantley, Brooks, Camden, Chatham, Cook, Glynn, Jenkins, Liberty, McIntosh, Mitchell, Thomas and Worth.

Colonies in southwest Georgia depend more on rainfall and are less stable than those in coastal counties, where many wetlands used by storks are influenced by tides.

Wood storks also may be spotted soaring on thermal updrafts or gliding to feeding sites. They sometimes range into north Georgia.

More than 75 percent of the stork rookeries in Georgia are on private land. The success of conservation efforts for this species depends on landowners’ willingness to ensure the protection of viable freshwater wetland nesting sites.

Georgia DNR’s Nongame Conservation Section works to conserve wood storks and Georgia’s other rare and endangered animals and native plants. Yet 97 percent of the agency’s budget comes from fundraisers, grants and donations.

Help by purchasing or renewing a bald eagle or ruby-throated hummingbird license plate. Thanks to a law change last year, buying or renewing these and other DNR wildlife plates costs only $25 more than a standard tag and up to 80 percent of that fee goes to directly to conserving Georgia wildlife.

Supporters can also contribute directly to the Georgia Nongame Wildlife Conservation Fund. These programs support conservation of wildlife not legally fished for, hunted or collected. Details: www.georgiawildlife.com/conservation/support

Arizona -(Ammoland.com)- Winners of the 10th annual “Arizona Big Game Super Raffle” were announced Thursday night during a Sportsmen’s Open Forum at Arizona Game and Fish Department headquarters.

The prizes included a total of 10 Special Big Game Tags, one for each of the state’s big game species – bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn antelope, buffalo, turkey, bear, javelina and mountain lion.

Arizona Big Game Super Raffle

The permit-tags were awarded by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission. Raffle tickets ranged from $5 to $25, depending on the species. A New Mexico elk hunt and Swarovski optics package also were raffled.

In the 10-year history of the raffle, almost $5 million has been raised for wildlife and wildlife management in Arizona. This year’s event generated a record $598,400, topping $557,320 in 2007.

The 2015 winners:

Bighorn sheep: Frank Aego, Princeton, Calif.

Black bear: Alan Lewis, Mesa, Ariz.

Buffalo: Harold Fahrenbrook, Golden, Colo.

Elk: Steve Holten, Pelican Rapids, Minn.

Javelina: Shane Dale, North Manchester, Ind.

Mountain lion: McCalvin Freeman, Airmont, N. Y.

Mule deer: William Penn, Deming, N.M.

Pronghorn antelope: Levi Van Buggenum, Story, Wyo.

Turkey: Scott Travis, Bath, N.Y.

White-tailed deer: William Davis, Sarasota, Fla.

New Mexico elk hunt: Ed Shippen, Yuma, Ariz.

Swarovski optics package: Jerry Hayden, Scottsdale, Ariz.

The raffle is conducted by a nonprofit entity to raise money for wildlife conservation efforts. A volunteer board of directors, comprised of representatives from sponsoring organizations, oversees the operation of the raffle.

Every dollar raised for each species through the raffle is returned to the department and managed by the Arizona Habitat Partnership Committee (AHPC) for that particular species. With input from local habitat partners across the state and sponsoring organizations involved in the fundraising, project priorities are determined that will provide the most benefit to each species.

Washington, DC –-(Ammoland.com)- Twenty-nine states, more than half the stars on the American flag, have filed lawsuits against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for redefining the “Waters of the United States,” or WOTUS.

EPA rewrote the law, erasing “navigable” and usurping states’ rights by including local seasonal streams, farm irrigation ponds, roadside ditches, and even “connective” dry lands placed under authority of the Clean Water Act.

The WOTUS rule, published the morning of June 29 2105, potentially subjects every food, energy, transportation and manufacturing industry in the nation to high-handed regulation by one of the most reviled and least trusted federal agencies, dreaded for its cadre of “revolving door” officials hired from anti-industry green groups.

The astonishing response began on the afternoon of June 29 2015: states teamed up in clusters to file their lawsuits in U.S. District Courts. Utah and eight others filed with Georgia in Augusta’s U.S. District Court; Alaska and eleven others filed with North Dakota in Bismarck. Days later, Mississippi and Louisiana filed with Texas in Galveston; Michigan filed with Ohio in Columbus; Oklahoma filed alone in Oklahoma City.

Each state lawsuit asked a federal judge to declare the WOTUS rule illegal and issue an injunction to prevent the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers, co-administrators of the rule, from enforcing it. Each state also asked the judge to order both agencies to draft a new rule that complies with the law and honors state authority.

The WOTUS rule is so alarming because it enables agency bureaucrats to control virtually anything that gets wet, including a desert dry wash that gets a “drizzle” – actual EPA language criticized by House Science Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas) at a Heartland Institute conference in Washington in June.

Heartland Research Fellow H. Sterling Burnett, PhD, commented: “Farmers, ranchers, developers, industries and individual property owners would now be subject to the EPA’s arbitrary, unsound and often incomprehensible regulatory system. It cannot be trusted.”

American Farm Bureau Federation general counsel Ellen Steen announced the group’s lawsuit with similar distrust:

“When EPA and the Corps first proposed the rule in March 2014, they promised clarity and certainty to farmers, ranchers, builders and other affected businesses and landowners. Instead, we have a final rule that exceeds the agencies’ legal authority and fails to provide the clarity that was promised.”

More than a dozen national agricultural and production organizations also filed suit against EPA, including the National Alliance of Forest Owners, American Road and Transportation Builders Association, National Association of Home Builders, National Association of Manufacturers, and Public Lands Council.

The non-profit Pacific Legal Foundation sued on behalf of the state cattlemen’s associations of California, Washington and New Mexico. When contacted for comment, the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association’s president, Jose Varela Lopez, said what many ranchers feel.

He told The Daily Caller, “My family has been on our land for 14 generations, each leaving it better for the next. Water is the source of all life and after all our generations, our water is clear and the land lives on. We have the history to prove that we are caretakers of the water and the land without the help of the Environmental Protection Agency.”

The alarm over WOTUS is not just about strangulation by regulation. Corruption has become a primary issue: evidence has emerged that EPA officials unlawfully lobbied crony green groups to send “one million comments” supporting the rule, according to a May 19 2015New York Times article. The Army Corps of Engineers examined the comments and the Senate found that 98 percent appeared to be non-substantive mass mailings.

Three lawmakers from the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, Chairman Jim Inhofe (R-OK) and two subcommittee chairmen, Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Mike Rounds (R-SD), immediately sent a letter to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy demanding answers about rigging public input with YouTube videos, Twitter accounts and many other social media marketing tools.

Although the senators focused on misdirection of staff time and taxpayer funds, most of their concerns – except for obtaining a legal opinion prior to campaigning – can be sidestepped with the EPA’s powerful Left-green network, a fact that emerged coincidentally when Heartland Institute researchers looked into Rep. Lamar Smith’s “drizzle” remark.

The million-member Natural Resources Defense Council has a long crony history with EPA: it has had 33 employees on 21 highly influential EPA federal advisory committees from 2001 to 2013. The Sierra Club had 21 people on 12 EPA committees; National Wildlife Federation, 8 employees on 5 committees; National Audubon Society, 7 on 4; Friends of the Earth, 6 on 4. And so on. Even the huge NRDC couldn’t singly muster “one million comments” for WOTUS, but somebody could. Who?

Those five groups are among the 20 Left-green members of the Partnership Project, a Washington, DC-based non-profit campaigning company that compiles and enhances all 20 membership lists with detailed demographic data, keeps each precious list secret from other members, and operates expertly managed collaborative campaigns for multiple members that agree to pool resources for mega-projects. Such projects are funded by massive foundation grants with no government money involved.

Was the Partnership Project actually involved with EPA’s WOTUS campaign? We don’t know. We do know that several other high-dollar campaign powers are also available to the Left-green movement. It’s time to shine some light into those shadowy corners of American politics.

Ron Arnold is Executive Vice President of the Center for the Defense of Free Enterprise. This article originally appeared in The Daily Caller.

Vermont -(Ammoland.com)- Wild turkeys are found throughout most of Vermont, but their reproductive success is monitored annually by the Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department with a little help from “citizen scientists” who report the number and size of turkey families they see during August.

Fish & Wildlife is again asking the public for help.

If you see a group of young turkeys in Vermont during August, the department wants you to go to the turkey brood survey on its website by clicking here… You can record where and when you observed the number of adult and young turkeys, or poults.

This purpose of the capture and study is to help researchers better understand deer migration patterns and reduce the high number of automobile/deer collisions on a busy 25-mile stretch of Highway 89.

Using tranquilizer darts, CDFW wildlife biologists captured 13 does and fitted them with global positioning satellite (GPS) collars. Blood and hair samples were taken, length and weight measurements were recorded and general health inspections were conducted on each animal.

This project was made possible through collaboration between CDFW and the California Deer Association (CDA).

“We are proud to partner with the department and others to ensure important wildlife studies and habitat conservation work continues,” said CDA Chief Executive Officer Roman Porter. “In addition to the grants awarded by CDA’s generous members, fees from hunting licenses and tags also help fund these important efforts to ensure healthy deer herds for years to come.”

The GPS collars will record the location and send the information to researchers through a satellite. This will allow scientists to track the deer as they move from summer to winter ranges throughout the year often crossing Highway 89. Caltrans carcass data have confirmed that more than 1,000 deer have been killed along this busy road in the last 30 years.

“The tracking collars will show us exactly when, where and how the deer move throughout the landscape,” said CDFW Environmental Scientist Sara Holm. “This type of information helps us make decisions on what type of crossing structures will make the most difference in saving the lives of both wildlife and people.”

California’s scenic Highway 89 runs through the lush meadows and dense pine trees of the Tahoe National Forest. Its western edge borders the Sagehen Creek Field Station and also happens to bisect the migration route of the Loyalton-Truckee mule deer herd. An estimated 4,000 to 6,000 cars travel Highway 89 each day, making the trip extremely perilous for humans and wildlife alike.

The Loyalton-Truckee mule deer are a migratory herd inside the Tahoe National Forest. The herd occupies the premium deer zones X7a/b. They have been studied for more than a decade for various reasons including health and migration patterns. It is estimated that more than 2,000 deer occupy this area.

Georgia -(Ammoland.com)- The Nongame Conservation Section of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is offering a $1,000 grant to a third-, fourth- or fifth-grade public or private school teacher in Georgia who demonstrates exceptional energy and innovation in teaching life sciences.

The grant is possible thanks to support from The Environmental Resource Network, or TERN, friends group of DNR Nongame Conservation.

Through education, research and management, DNR Nongame Conservation works to safeguard Georgia’s native diversity of wild animals, plants and their habitats – while also striving to increase public enjoyment of the outdoors. The purpose of the grant is to recognize and help an outstanding teacher who uses Georgia’s nongame wildlife as the context for learning third-, fourth- or fifth-grade curriculum standards, according to Linda May, DNR environmental outreach coordinator.

“Hands-on learning outdoors has many benefits for students,” May said. “Through their natural curiosity, children often develop a love for wildlife and the places they call home. Ultimately, this awareness and appreciation help them to become good environmental stewards – and then our natural resources benefit, too.”

Nongame wildlife refers to native animals that are not fished for or hunted and rare native plants, species such as gopher tortoises and purple pitcherplants.

Previous grant recipients learned about our state’s natural heritage by exploring various ecoregions. For example, at Whit Davis Elementary in Athens, science specialist Steven King guided students in creating Georgia-specific habitats with representative animals in aquariums for the school’s science laboratory. Professionals from the University of Georgia’s Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources helped King. Students observed the aquarium activity and recorded findings in a journal and through videos broadcast on the school’s district cable TV channel.

More recently, Savannah Country Day School students taught by science specialist Bill Eswine turned a large drainage ditch on campus into a bog for use as an outdoor classroom. This new habitat will be used for wildlife observation and data recording as well as learning about the potential effects of pollution and other threats to ecosystems.

This fall, another teacher will be selected to receive funding based on project design, which will be evaluated through grant proposal questions. Projects that are especially creative and teach about Georgia’s rare or endangered species, as well as those that have no other means of funding, will earn bonus points. See www.georgiawildlife.com/education/educator-resources for details.

The deadline to apply is Sept. 18, 2015. DNR will notify the grant winner and award funding in October.

For more information about the grant, please contact Linda May (linda.may@dnr.ga.gov, 706-557-3226) or Anna Yellin (anna.yellin@dnr.ga.gov, 706-557-3283).

The waterfowl stamp validation is sold along with hunting licenses and for an extra 75 cents purchasers can receive the pictorial stamp. It is also sold as a collectible for $8.25. Revenue from stamp sales is dedicated to waterfowl management and habitat work.

The American wigeon is the only eligible species for depiction on the 2016 waterfowl stamp.

Artists are prohibited from using any photographic product as part of their finished entries. Winning artists usually issue limited edition prints of the artwork and retain proceeds. Judging will take place Thursday, Sept. 3, at DNR headquarters, 500 Lafayette Road in St. Paul.

To see more information on stamp contests, guidelines for submitting work, and to sign up to receive regular email updates on the stamp contests, see www.mndnr.gov/contests/stamps.html. Contest guidelines are also available from the DNR Information Center by calling 651-296-6157 or 888-646-6367.

“We are grateful for and appreciate the support of an organization that is such a devoted conservation partner,” said David Allen, RMEF president and CEO. “Bass Pro Shops has shown again and again that in addition to its on-going work involving fish and wildlife habitat improvements, conservation and outdoor skills education, and conservation advocacy, that it remains a committed supporter of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.”

During the entire month of August, in-store patrons who visit Bass Pro Shops across the United States can “round up for elk country,” or, in other words, round up their purchases to support RMEF’s conservation efforts.

“We want to give our customers the opportunity to contribute to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and its great mission to ensure the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage,” said Martin Mac Donald, Bass Pro Shops director of conservation. “Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris also established a matching donation program from Bass Pro to Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. We donate an additional 50 percent of the cumulative customer donations during the month of August.”

Since 1984, RMEF and its partners have completed 9,556 conservation and hunting heritage outreach projects with a combined value of more than $987.3 million. These projects have protected or enhanced more than 6.6 million acres of habitat and have opened or secured public access to 772,110 acres.

About Bass Pro Shops

Bass Pro Shops, which specializes in outdoor fun, operates 92 stores and Tracker Marine Centers across America and Canada that are visited by more than 120 million people every year. Bass Pro Shops stores, many of which feature restaurants, offer hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor gear while their catalogs and website serve shoppers throughout the world. The company’s Tracker Marine Group, a leading brand of fishing boats for more than 37 years, manufactures and sells a variety of boats for fishing and cruising. Family fun is on tap at Bass Pro Shops resort Big Cedar Lodge, voted number six by Travel + Leisure Magazine as World’s Best Hotels for Families. To request a free catalog, call 1-800-BASS PRO. Follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/bassproshops.

Founded over 30 years ago, fueled by hunters and a membership of more than 205,000 strong, RMEF has conserved more than 6.6 million acres for elk and other wildlife. RMEF also works to open and improve public access, fund and advocate for science-based resource management, and ensure the future of America’s hunting heritage.

Discover why “Hunting Is Conservation” at www.RMEF.org or 800-CALL ELK.

New Mexico -(Ammoland.com)- The auction and raffle of four bighorn sheep hunting licenses brought in close to a half million dollars for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish bighorn sheep program this year.

Two lucky hunters won prized bighorn sheep permits in a record-breaking raffle conducted by the New Mexico chapter of the Wild Sheep Foundation in June. The raffle sold more than 7,000 tickets and earned $143,000 for the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish’s bighorn sheep program, said Eric Rominger, bighorn sheep biologist for the department. Twice as many $20 raffle tickets were sold this year than last year for the chance to hunt for either a Rocky Mountain or desert bighorn sheep, Rominger said.

In January, the auctions of a desert bighorn license and a Rocky Mountain bighorn license together brought in another $330,000 to the department’s program, Rominger said.

Proceeds will go to the department’s bighorn sheep program and will be used for research, restoration, predator control and other operations, Rominger said.

New Mexico’s desert bighorn sheep population was nearly wiped out by market hunting, domestic livestock diseases and mountain lion predation. Fewer than 70 animals remained statewide by 1980, prompting New Mexico to add the desert bighorn to its endangered species list. Today, transplanting efforts and cougar control have helped establish herds across southern New Mexico. By 2011 there were enough desert bighorn sheep in the state to enable their removal from the state endangered species list.

Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep had already disappeared from New Mexico by the early 1900s.

But the animals have since rebounded through efforts by the department with funds from hunters and conservation groups.

Hundreds of bighorn sheep have been transplanted across the state to establish herds while mountain lions have been brought under control to limit predation losses.

For more information about hunting for bighorn sheep in New Mexico please visit the department website at www.wildlife.state.nm.us.

Oregon -(Ammoland.com)- The Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted amended administrative rules for sage-grouse management in Oregon at its meeting in Salem today.

The new rules require mitigation actions to offset impacts of large-scale and other developments such as aggregate mining, wind, solar, and geothermal energy plants.

Before today, ODFW mitigation rules were effectively only recommendations to permitting entities and not requirements for mitigating development impacts in designated core habitat for sage-grouse. Core habitats are areas which encompass about one-third of Oregon’s sage-grouse habitat but support more than 90 percent of the bird’s populations.

On July 24th, the Oregon Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) adopted new rules that would allow limited development in core habitat after going through an avoidance test (meaning the project proposal shows other areas were considered but development is dependent on unique geographic features of the site, not feasible elsewhere, and necessary for infrastructure, economic opportunity or public health safety). The new LCDC rules also require developments to follow ODFW’s mitigation rules.

The administrative rules of ODFW and LCDC will work together to address one of the threats to sage-grouse identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS): the lack of regulatory certainty in protecting sage-grouse habitat. That protection is key in the upcoming USFWS decision whether or not to list sage-grouse as a threatened or endangered species. The USFWS is expected to make this decision by Sept. 30, 2015.

Both commissions also heard public input from several public meetings in southeast Oregon earlier in the summer.

The Commission is the policy-making body for fish and wildlife issues in the state. Its next meeting is Aug. 7 in Salem.

Colorado BHA started the Habitat Watchmen program in 2009, which has since been replicated in multiple other BHA state chapters. Habitat Watchmen serve as BHA’s “eyes and ears,” their points of contact for issues impacting specific national forests and other public lands.

The Colorado chapter currently has 24 Habitat Watchmen covering 10 of 11 national forests. Hylden will serve as a Habitat Watchman for the Arapaho National Forest in north-central Colorado.

Mikkel was born and raised in Minnesota and lived in Michigan for a couple years after college, but he has (in his words) “fortunately been in Colorado since 1998.” Mikkel learned hunting and fishing from his father, brothers and family friends, and uses shotguns, rifles and bows. Currently, hunting big game and turkeys get the majority of Mikkel’s available time, but he also chases pheasant and fishes with his daughters.

Mikkel lives in Lakewood and is an engineer by training/schooling, but works in software these days.

Mikkel says, “As I’ve gotten older, I’ve enjoyed the nature/wilderness aspects of my hunting and fishing trips as much as I enjoy putting meat in the freezer. But I do like it when both come together. My daughters are just getting old enough to start hunting on their own now, although they’ve joined me every year for a turkey hunt in Colorado. We’re looking forward to hunting and fishing more as they get older.”

Formed around an Oregon campfire in 2004, BHA is the sportsmen’s voice for our nation’s wild public lands, waters and wildlife. With members in all 50 states and Canada, 16 state-based chapters and a chapter in British Columbia, and more than 70,000 Facebook users, the group brings an authentic, informed, boots-on-the-ground voice to the conservation of public lands.

Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is the sportsmen’s voice for our wild public lands, waters and wildlife

Arkansas -(Ammoland.com)- Farmers, duck hunters, birdwatchers and other conservationists are forming an alliance to strengthen Arkansas’s economy by making mud.

Through the Arkansas Mud Drive, farmers and landowners are asked to voluntarily flood their fields by closing water-control structures within 14 days after harvest. This will keep valuable sediments and nutrients in the fields, as well as provide much needed habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds.

Row-crop agriculture, hunting, wildlife watching and fishing combined generate roughly $4.5 billion in economic activity for Arkansas. The simple practice of voluntarily flooding farm fields after harvest provides the opportunity to bolster the economic impact of all of these sectors at the same time.

Since pumping water is not encouraged through the Mud Drive, and only closing structures is required, farmers will not be out time or money. The goal is to catch rainfall, which is free; and only a few inches of water are needed to support birds. If structures aren’t closed, the soil that escapes a farm field after harvest has nutrients bound to it that the farmer paid for. That is money sent down the drain. Additionally, flooding fields after harvest allows weed seeds to decompose or be consumed by birds, reducing herbicide costs in the spring.

Mike Budd of South Arkansas National Wildlife Complex said, “There are plenty of duck hunters hoping to find more flooded fields, so this is an opportunity to increase hunting opportunities and farm income through leases. Additionally, bird watchers seek flooded fields starting in late summer for highly sought after shorebirds. Trip-related expenditures by wildlife-watchers in 2011 were $35 million, so more wildlife-watching opportunities will certainly boost the rural economy for farm-dominated areas of the state. Fishing will improve, as keeping the soil in the fields will enhance water quality and increase sport fish populations.”

The Arkansas Mud Drive is also an opportunity for the youth of Arkansas to learn more about farming and how all of these sectors can work together to make Arkansas stronger and the water cleaner. Students and youth groups can win cash through the Mud Drive by getting pledges from farmers or landowners as well as answering a handful of educational questions. Pledges are due by Aug. 28. Farmers are encouraged to fill out the pledge form at their County Conservation District office regardless of whether or not a student approaches them to get the pledge.

The voluntary pledge form for the Mud Drive, as well as the youth competition questions and instructions can be found on the Arkansas Association of Conservation District’s website at www.aracd.org/. Look for the Arkansas Mud Drive on Facebook. For more information, phone Mike Budd at 870-940-0681 or email michael_budd@fws.gov.

Washington, DC -(AmmoLand.com)- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is launching new partnerships in cities across the nation to boost opportunities for city residents to connect with nature and engage thousands of volunteers in restoring local environments.

Three cities – Anchorage, AK; Atlanta, GA; and Springfield, MA – now join 14 others with Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnerships. These partnerships are collaborative efforts to provide residents of demographically diverse cities with fresh opportunities to get outdoors and experience nature within the urban environment. The partnerships encourage and nurture an appreciation of wildlife conservation among new audiences.

Five cities – Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; Pittsburgh, PA; New Haven, CT; and McAllen, TX – are now designated Urban Bird Treaty cities, joining 21 other such partnerships nationwide. The Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds – known as the Urban Bird Treaty – works with cities and partners to conserve migratory birds through education, citizen science and conservation action in urban and suburban areas.

The new partnerships, which are all part of the Service’s Urban Wildlife Conservation Program, were made possible by the 2015 Five Star grants from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), which generated $2.35 million in direct contributions and matching funds from local partners.

“The Urban Wildlife Conservation Program was created because we believe the future of conservation depends on engaging people in natural resource stewardship. That is especially true of the millions who live in America’s biggest cities,” said Dan Ashe, Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “These grants will make a huge difference in reaching new communities by creating local partnerships with the Service in neighborhoods across the country. The benefits will be felt for generations.”

With 80 percent of Americans living in urban communities, the challenge to ensure that natural resources are conserved and valued by the American people has become more complex. The Service is committed to serving this growing diverse, urban audience. The Urban Wildlife Conservation Program, launched in 2013, provides new opportunities for residents of America’s cities to learn about and take part in wildlife habitat conservation.

Anchorage, AK: Empowering Anchorage’s Youth through Outdoor Leadership Development to Bring a Diversity of Perspectives and Citizen Engagement to Conservation of Alaska’s Migratory Birds, Wetlands and National Wildlife Refuges: The project will help restore 30 miles of Anchorage streams, provide opportunities for urban youth and families to engage in wildlife conservation, mentor urban and rural youth ambassadors to promote shared perspectives and leadership, and engage nontraditional partners to achieve shared conservation and urban community development objectives. The project will connect Anchorage’s diverse urban neighborhoods to their wild backyards, and foster unity among future urban/rural conservation leaders.

Atlanta, GA: Who’s Home on the Confluence?: The South Fork Conservancy and scientific partners will collect and analyze data on plant and animal populations and water quality at the degraded confluence of the south and north forks of Peachtree Creek. The partners, including the Service, will build creek access and engage underserved communities in monitoring and sustaining current restoration and green infrastructure efforts.

Springfield, MA: A Coalition of Action: Youth, Community and Partners Engaged in Environmental Education and Restoration: Students and community members will engage in environmental education and urban restoration projects to create a network of conserved habitats in the Connecticut River watershed.

The five new Urban Bird Treaty cities’ focus areas are:

New Haven, CT: The Urban Oases for Migrating Songbirds in the New Haven Harbor Watershed project, a designated Urban Wildlife Refuge Partnership Project, employs an innovative model of community-based land stewardship. The model engages multiple stakeholders in restoring urban green spaces to provide quality stop-over habitat for migratory songbirds. It also addresses critical community needs in underserved neighborhoods of New Haven. Nine project partners, with input and support from the local community, will identify migratory songbird hotspots where community residents, particularly children and youth, would benefit from increased access to natural areas. Outreach events will celebrate the centennial of the first Migratory Bird Treaty, with Canada, in 2016.

Atlanta, GA: Atlanta Audubon Society will bring national and local forces together to create bird-friendly communities in two areas along tributaries of the Chattahoochee River. Participants will restore and enhance habitat for birds and begin regular inventory of birds. They will also provide citizen science opportunities for local communities and educational programs that heighten awareness about bird conservation and the need for quality habitat.

Baltimore, MD: Outward Bound Baltimore and partners will restore forest and shrub habitat, reduce collision hazards for birds, and create awareness for migratory birds in the city of Baltimore.

McAllen, TX: The City of McAllen Urban Bird Conservation Project focuses on restoring land at the McAllen Nature Center, a 20-acre urban site. It also aims to raise awareness of nature spaces and conservation throughout the city of McAllen and surrounding Rio Grande Valley area.

Since it began in 1999, the Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Grant Program has supported more than 750 projects in 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. More than $8.5 million in federal funds and $7 million in private and corporate contributions have been leveraged with $60 million in matching funds at the local level. The program is administered by the NFWF, National Association of Counties, Wildlife Habitat Council and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The Service contributed $540,000 to this year’s projects. Other funding partners in the 2015 Five Star grant program include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Forest Service, FedEx, Southern Company, Bank of America, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company.

About U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. Connect with our Facebook page, follow our tweets, watch our YouTube Channel and download photos from our Flickr page.

Arkansas -(Ammoland.com)- Bob Fugitt looks at the deer mount on a den wall, and the memory takes him back more than a half century.

it’s an 8-point buck with a better than good set of antlers. Then a closer look shows a notched right ear. And that is the story of this particular buck.

AGFC Buck

Back in the deer restoration days, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission operated numbers deer farms or refuges. The term changed with the passing of years. A 1951 book published by the AGFC said there were 44 such facilities, and these included Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge and White River National Wildlife Refuge.

Nearly all the others were on leased or rented or sometimes just land worked through a handshake. The AGFC actually owned little land in those days, meaning the late 1920s to the late 1950s. This was the era of the deer turnaround – from a low of an estimated 500 deer in the entire state to today’s abundance.

It took time, and it took habitat – the same essentials cited today by wildlife biologists.

One of the deer operations was near Hollywood, and it was called Clark County Deer Refuge. This was close to the Little Missouri River bottoms and land owned for generations by the Fugitt family. The river forms the boundary between Pike and Hempstead counties with Nevada and Clark counties nearby

Bob Fugitt told of killing that deer on the wall back in 1958. “The dogs were running deer, and three does came past us. I pushed back into some vines and sure enough, this buck came along. The dogs went one way after the does, and the buck went the other way. I waited until it got into an opening, then I shot.”

This was before the onset of tree stand deer hunting. You were on the ground to hunt deer. Fugitt was using a Winchester Model 50 12-gauge shotgun, popular in those days, and he had it loaded with buckshot, also popular in those days. “I shot it at about 60 steps, and three buckshot went into the heart,” he said. The buck had an 18-inch inside spread and later scored a Boone & Crockett 147.

Fugitt and companions began dressing out the deer, and someone said, “Look here. This ear has a notch in it. And here is a tag.”

Some research turned up facts. Deer stocked on those refuges in the restoration era were notched and tagged for identification. Four does and two mature bucks were stocked on the Clark County Deer Refuge, so the buck that Fugitt killed was probably – repeat, probably – One of those two bucks put on the refuge just after World War II.

But another possibility is the buck could have come downstream from Howard County Deer Refuge 30 or so miles away.

Deer don’t wear license plates nor carry Social Security cards.

This buck was a big one, Fugitt recalled. “We had a time getting it out and back to the farm,” he said. That farm has an old house festooned with antlers – mementos of past hunting successes, he said.

But none of the other racks came from deer with notched ears and wearing tags.

]]>http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/bucks-notched-ear-is-reminder-of-arkansas-gfc-restoration-refuges/feed/1Gamekeepers; Whitetail Buck; 12 Trail Camera Concepts – A Watchful Eye12 Trail Camera Concepts - A Watchful EyeArkansas Game & Fish Commission Logo 2014Arkansas Game & Fish CommissionunnamedBack in the deer restoration days, Arkansas Game and Fish Commission operated numbers deer farms or refuges. The term changed with the passing of years. A 1951 book published by the AGFC said there were 44 such facilities, and these included Big Lake National Wildlife Refuge and White River National Wildlife Refuge.RGS and AWS Welcome New Wildlife Biologists for Western Great Lakeshttp://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/rgs-and-aws-welcome-new-wildlife-biologists-for-western-great-lakes/
http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/rgs-and-aws-welcome-new-wildlife-biologists-for-western-great-lakes/#commentsMon, 27 Jul 2015 12:06:00 +0000http://www.ammoland.com/?p=226397The Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society add dedicated professionals to their respected biologist program in Meadow Kouffeld-Hansen in Minnesota and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and Scott Walter in Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa.Ruffed Grouse Society

Kouffeld-Hansen and Walter will be responsible for supporting RGS and AWS forest management efforts by working with landowners and government agencies to create healthy forest habitat for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and other wildlife.

“We are extremely excited to add Meadow and Scott to our respected team of wildlife biologists,” said RGS and AWS President and CEO John Eichinger. “They are dedicated professionals who bring documented experience and leadership in wildlife habitat development within their respective regions,” added Eichinger.

Meadow Kouffeld-Hansen joins RGS and AWS from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources where she worked as an assistant area wildlife manager and wildlife habitat contracts administrator. She attended graduate school at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, where she earned her master’s degree in wildlife ecology and management and was given an excellent opportunity to study ruffed grouse habitat selection in northcentral Minnesota. She developed a deep appreciation for ruffed grouse and American woodcock in Minnesota during her graduate school studies. She earned her bachelor’s degree in wildlife conservation biology and vertebrate ecology at Humboldt State University in Arcata, California, where she began spending more time hunting waterfowl and upland game. After Humboldt, she worked on a variety of wildlife and fisheries projects in New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, California and Washington.

Kouffeld-Hansen is originally from Igo, California, where she grew up hunting quail, turkeys and big game and raising and showing poultry throughout the West Coast, an upbringing that contributed to her love of game birds. She now lives in Grand Rapids, Minnesota with her husband Jayson Hansen, a conservation officer, and their two-year-old daughter Heidi. She enjoys raising and training Deutsch-Drahthaars (VDD), and recently had her “A” litter under the registered kennel name of “vom Himmelwasser” and anticipates working one of the pups through the German testing system. She most looks forward to spending time with her daughter in the grouse woods working her bird dogs.

“I am excited for the opportunity to represent the Ruffed Grouse Society and American Woodcock Society in northern Minnesota and Upper Peninsula of Michigan to promote the future of my favorite pastime, pursuing the upper Midwest’s most popular game birds,” said Meadow Kouffeld-Hansen.

Scott Walter comes to RGS and AWS from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WI DNR), where he served as the upland wildlife ecologist and farm bill coordinator from 2011 through 2015. This position engaged many partner groups on harvest and habitat management-related issues for a suite of upland game birds. During his time with the WI DNR, he gained experience with program and policy development and the importance of collaborative conservation efforts. He has his master’s and doctorate degrees in wildlife ecology from University of Wisconsin – Madison and bachelor’s degree in biology from Beloit College.

Walter was a professor of biology at the University of Wisconsin – Richland from 1999 through 2011, where he collaborated with a series of students on a four-year study of ruffed grouse with the goal of explaining the long-term population decline in the hardwood-dominated forests of the driftless region in addition to development of many future wildlife biologists, fisheries biologists and foresters.

Born and raised in southern Wisconsin, Walter lives with his wife Erica and five children on their six-generation family farm in Richland County, Wisconsin, where he first experienced the thrill of a ruffed grouse flush and still practices active forest management. He is a 21-year member of RGS having served on the banquet committee for the John Keener Chapter, presented at the Wisconsin Coverts workshop, and was awarded his first graduate scholarship, the Terry Amundson Memorial Award by the John Keener Chapter.

“I am truly humbled to be an RGS and AWS regional wildlife biologist for Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois,” said Scott Walter. “I’m looking forward to continuing the strong partnerships developed by Gary Zimmer and in exploring new ways to expand the habitat base for grouse and woodcock and enhance opportunities for our region’s upland bird hunters.”

For more information about their new positions, contact Meadow Kouffeld-Hansen: meadowk@ruffedgrousesociety.org; and Scott Walter: scottw@ruffedgrousesociety.org.

About The Ruffed Grouse Society

Established in 1961, The Ruffed Grouse Society/American Woodcock Society is North America’s foremost conservation organization dedicated to preserving our sporting traditions by creating healthy forest habitat for ruffed grouse, American woodcock and other wildlife. RGS/AWS works with landowners and government agencies to develop critical habitat utilizing scientific management practices.

Arkansas -(Ammoland.com)- Governor Asa Hutchinson has appointed Joe Morgan of Little Rock and Stuttgart to serve on the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. This is the Hutchinson’s first appointment to the commission.

Joe Morgan

Hutchinson said he wanted someone like Morgan who understands the breadth of the outdoors culture in Arkansas. “I wanted someone who is engaged and passionate, who values, respects and treasures our incredible natural resources. Joe Morgan is an ideal fit. He understands the importance of the work of the Game and Fish Commission and what it means to the general public, to the average Arkansan,” Hutchinson said. “He’s an avid hunter and fisherman with a lifelong love and appreciation of the outdoors,” he added.

Hutchinson said Morgan understands that being on the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission means being a steward of all The Natural State has to offer. “It means protecting and improving our natural resources for this generation and for generations to come. We want to sustain and build our outdoor life, which makes Arkansas so very special,” Hutchinson explained.

Morgan is a lifelong hunter and fisherman with a working knowledge of game and fish issues statewide, especially in Bayou Meto Wildlife Management Area. He has served on the Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission for 14 years, spending three of those years as Chairman. Morgan is a retired Chevrolet auto dealer and lives in Little Rock and spends the winters hunting in Stuttgart.

Morgan’s term will expire in 2022. He replaces Ron Duncan of Springdale whose term expired in June.

Delaware -(Ammoland.com)- Online volunteer registration is now open for the 29th annual Delaware Coastal Cleanup, to be held from 9 a.m. to noonon Saturday, Sept. 190.

Sponsored by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, the cleanup spans the First State’s 97-mile eastern coastline and includes river and ocean shorelines as well as wetland and watershed areas. This year, nearly 50 sites in New Castle, Kent and Sussex counties are targeted for volunteers to scour and make cleaner.

Volunteers are strongly encouraged to pre-register on the DNREC website to ensure enough supplies are packed for each site. To pre-register, go to www.dnrec.delaware.gov/CoastalCleanup. Pre-registration will close on Wednesday, Sept. 9 at close of business.

Delaware’s Cleanup is part of the Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup, the world’s largest annual clearing of trash from coastlines and lakes by volunteers. Hundreds of thousands of people all over the world help each year to rid the environment of marine debris and collect detailed information on the types and quantities of refuse they find. This information is recorded on data cards and forwarded to the Center for Marine Conservation, which compiles data for all of the cleanups held in the country and around the world. This information helps identify the source of the debris and focus efforts on eliminating or reducing it.

]]>http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/online-registration-open-now-for-2015-delaware-coastal-cleanup-volunteers/feed/0unnamedOnline registration open now for 2015 Delaware Coastal Cleanup volunteersDNREC LOGO DelawareDelaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC)Further Actions Taken to Combat CWD of Deer in West Virginiahttp://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/further-actions-taken-to-combat-cwd-of-deer-in-west-virginia/
http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/further-actions-taken-to-combat-cwd-of-deer-in-west-virginia/#commentsFri, 24 Jul 2015 22:16:52 +0000http://www.ammoland.com/?p=226364Further Actions Taken to Combat CWD of Deer in West VirginiaWest Virginia Division of Natural Resources

West Virginia -(Ammoland.com)- As part of our agency’s ongoing management efforts to slow the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), a larger portion of the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia has been added to the current area where artificial supplemental feeding and baiting of deer is prohibited,” said Robert Fala, Director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR).

Effective July 1, 2015, the area includes Berkeley, Grant, Hampshire, Hardy, Jefferson, Mineral and Morgan counties. Current research indicates that supplemental feeding and baiting of deer increases the chance of disease transmission far above the normal clustering of deer on natural and agricultural feeding areas. Lowering encounter rates between infected and non-infected animals by prohibiting artificial supplemental feeding and baiting are generally accepted management practices for slowing the spread of an infectious disease among wildlife.

Initiating these prohibitions is a major tool used by other states combating CWD. In these seven Eastern Panhandle counties it is illegal to bait or feed deer, which includes minerals and other edible enticements. Song and insectivorous birds may be fed, provided that such feeding shall not cause, or be done in a manner that would be reasonably anticipated to cause, a congregation of deer or other wildlife.

“The expansion of the West Virginia CWD Containment Area follows similar expansions of disease management areas in Virginia and Pennsylvania,” Director Fala said.

At a recent meeting hosted by West Virginia DNR at Cacapon Resort State Park, wildlife agency staff tasked with addressing CWD in their respective states of Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio shared information regarding CWD and discussed ways to coordinate CWD management efforts on a regional basis.

“This information exchange between states is especially important with the current location of known CWD infected deer located in close proximity across the states of Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia,” said Director Fala.

Deer hunters are reminded that dead deer or their parts may not be transported beyond the boundary of Hampshire, Hardy and Morgan counties except for the following: meat that has been boned out, quarters or other portions of meat with no part of the spinal column or head attached, cleaned hide with no head attached, clean skull plate (no meat or tissue attached) with antlers attached, antlers with no meat or tissue attached, and finished taxidermy mounts. Hunters may transport deer carcasses that were not killed inside the containment area through the containment area.

CWD has now been detected in a total of 179 deer in Hampshire County and four deer in Hardy County. The DNR will continue to update management actions designed to control the spread of this disease, prevent further introduction of the disease, and possibly eliminate the disease from the state as information from deer testing within West Virginia is gathered and scientists across the country provide more information on how to combat CWD in white-tailed deer.

For additional information on deer baiting and feeding prohibitions and deer carcass transport restrictions please see the 2015-2016 Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary available at DNR offices and license agents or visit www.wvdnr.gov.

Lansing, MI -(AmmoLand.com)- As Michigan’s osprey population continues to rebound, the Department of Natural Resources is tracking the revitalization of this species in southern Michigan through monitoring efforts.

This year, four osprey chicks from area nests were outfitted with “backpack” GPS/GSM telemetry units. Funded by donations from DTE Energy, Huron Valley Audubon and Michigan Osprey volunteers Martha Wolf and Barb Jensen, these units will help scientists track the young birds’ daily movements and seasonal migration patterns.

The chicks were hatched in nests on platforms at Kensington Metropark in Milford and Sterling State Park in Monroe. Crews from Clearlink Wireless Solutions, Skyline Services LLC, Newkirk-Electric and Earthcom Inc. climbed the towers to access the chicks for banding and transmitter deployment.

“We are very excited to have this opportunity to place GPS units on several ospreys this year,” said Julie Oakes, DNR wildlife biologist. “This will provide us with information on what migration routes the birds take and will give us insight into what perils they must endure on their migration.”

Anyone can follow the movement of the birds by visiting the Michigan osprey website at www.michiganosprey.org. Move the cursor along the route to see GPS coordinates and time and date information for each leg of an osprey’s journey. The youngsters will begin their migration in early to mid-September. It likely will be a couple of years before they return, since ospreys generally spend their first two years or so in Central America and South America before returning northward to nest.

GPS transmitters for ospreys are small, weighing only about an ounce.

In 1998, the DNR began to relocate ospreys to southern Michigan. The program, supported by donations to Michigan’s Nongame Wildlife Fund, involved relocating chicks from nests in northern Michigan and rearing them in man-made towers in southern Michigan, through a process called “hacking.” Relocation efforts occurred over a span of 10 years. In 2013, the DNR, along with volunteers from Michigan Osprey, identified at least 56 active nests in southern Michigan – an amazing increase from the single active nest reported in 2002.

“This is a true wildlife success story,” said Oakes. “Each year we have new nests. We have already exceeded our original goal of 30 active nests by 2020. We have been able to remove ospreys from the threatened species list and restore their numbers in Michigan.”

Historically, osprey chicks have been banded each year as part of a national effort to monitor the species. Banding continues this year as a cooperative venture of the Michigan DNR, Huron-Clinton Metroparks, the Detroit Zoological Society and Michigan Osprey.

Brian Washburn of the U.S. Department of Agriculture stands with staff members and friends of DTE Energy, the sponsors of the GSM backpack on this osprey chick.

Because ospreys often nest on cell-phone towers, staff from cell-phone tower companies – including American Tower Corporation, Verizon Wireless, McFarlin Tower, Skyline Services LLC, Earthcom, Hydaker-Wheatlake Inc., Newkirk Electric, Clearlink Wireless Solutions and Crown Castle International – are invaluable partners in osprey monitoring. Their staff members alert the DNR and Michigan Osprey to osprey nests, assist with the retrieval of chicks during the banding process and delay tower repair projects until after the nesting season.

DNR wildlife biologist Julie Oakes holds an osprey chick as the boat returns to the platform where the chick hatched.

Other partners in this monitoring effort include the Huron Valley Audubon Society, Michigan Audubon, volunteers from Michigan Osprey and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Wildlife Services.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations.

]]>http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/four-osprey-chicks-sport-gps-satellite-backpacks/feed/0Osprey + TransmitterJulie Oakes of the Michigan DNR and Brian Washburn of the USDA Wildlife Services outfit an osprey chick with a GPS “backpack” at Sterling State Park.Michigan Department of Natural ResourcesMichigan Department of Natural ResourcesGPS Backpack in handGPS transmitters for ospreys are small, weighing only about an ounce.Brian and DTE CrewBrian Washburn of the U.S. Department of Agriculture stands with staff members and friends of DTE Energy, the sponsors of the GSM backpack on this osprey chick.Returning Osprey to nestDNR wildlife biologist Julie Oakes holds an osprey chick as the boat returns to the platform where the chick hatched.Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Conservation Package Introduced in the Househttp://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/bipartisan-sportsmens-conservation-package-introduced-in-the-house/
http://www.ammoland.com/2015/07/bipartisan-sportsmens-conservation-package-introduced-in-the-house/#commentsFri, 24 Jul 2015 18:12:32 +0000http://www.ammoland.com/?p=226313Sportsmen’s Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Enhancement Act is purely positive move to authorize or implement critical conservation programsBipartisan Sportsmen’s Conservation Package Introduced in the HouseTheodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership

Combined with the previously introduced SHARE Act (HR 2406), these bills constitute a major victory for fish and wildlife habitat, and improved access for America’s hunters and anglers. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) and Ron Kind (D-Wis.), all past chairs of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, are also supporting SCORE.

“The sportsmen’s community can stand squarely behind this bill as a great step forward in protecting our ability to fund and implement the conservation of at-risk habitats, species, and access,” said Whit Fosburgh, president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “It’s a good example of bipartisan legislation that addresses the needs of America’s hunters and anglers, and we’d like to see a lot more of that consensus.”

The bill contains seven provisions to authorize or implement legislation that helps fund conservation programs on federal and private lands, which boosts sportsmen’s access to quality hunting and fishing, including reauthorization of the Federal Land Transaction Facilitation Act (FLTFA). Prior to its expiration in 2011, FLTFA had leveraged strategic federal land sales to fund 39 priority conservation projects, including many that expanded sportsmen’s access to world-class hunting and fishing opportunities.

“There is a lot to like in this legislation,” said Kameran Onley, director of U.S. government relations for The Nature Conservancy. “It shows a significant bipartisan commitment to conservation and wildlife habitat protection, as well as sportsmen’s access and recreational opportunities that help grow our economy. We’re encouraged to see the bill include so many effective, fiscally-sound programs that provide both economic and conservation benefits.”

The Act would reauthorize two conservation grant programs with matched-dollar incentives: the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) and the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act. Each federal dollar invested in these grant programs is matched, on average, three times over by non-federal dollars that have major on-the-ground impacts for the conservation of wetlands, waterfowl, and other wildlife.

“Conserving and protecting our nation’s wetlands is at the core of Ducks Unlimited,” said DU’s Chief Policy Officer Margaret Everson. “NAWCA funding is a critical component for DU to carry out our mission of conserving, restoring, and managing wetlands and habitats for North America’s waterfowl. We’re pleased this legislation calls for the reauthorization of these programs and appreciate the continued support for our community from Representatives Wittman, Walz, Duncan, and Green.”

A provision often referred to as Making Public Lands Public, which has garnered significant bipartisan support as a standalone piece of legislation, is also a part of the package. It requires that 1.5 percent of annual Land and Water Conservation Fund monies be made available to establish and expand recreational access to federal public lands.

“We are thrilled to see bipartisan support for the SCORE Act, and we are particularly excited to see the ‘Making Public Lands Public’ provision included,” said Land Tawney, executive director for Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA). “Public lands are the cornerstone of our sporting heritage and public access to these lands is a priority for BHA. We look forward to swift action and ultimate passage of the SCORE Act. The steak has sizzled on the grill long enough—it’s time to set the table and pass a sportsmen’s package.”

SCORE includes a sense of Congressional support for the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act, which was previously introduced in Congress in 2014 to improve fish habitat through partnerships that foster conservation projects or enhance recreational fishing opportunities. These partnerships would “support the economic significance of fish habitat resources and the recreational, subsistence, and commercial fishing linked to these resources in the United States.”

“The recreational fishing industry strongly supports and, in fact, depends on healthy fish habitat that provides abundant fish stocks, which are enjoyed by our nation’s 60 million anglers,” said Mike Leonard, ocean resource policy director for the American Sportfishing Association and National Fish Habitat Partnership board member. “In addition to the other public access and habitat improvement provisions in this bill, we strongly support the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act and hope to see it advance in this Congress as part of a broader sportsmen’s package.”

Finally, SCORE would reauthorize the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, a congressionally-chartered grant-making organization that works with public and private stakeholders, and Partners for Fish and Wildlife, which assists private landowners in preserving habitat for federally-managed species.

“It’s vitally important that Congress now pass the SCORE Act, so that these important conservation measures can continue and the investments the American public has made in wildlife conservation programs can reap rewards for years to come,” said David Houghton, president of the National Wildlife Refuge Association. “We’re particularly pleased to see reauthorization of the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, because this important program helps private landowners keep working lands working.”

SHARE, which has also been supported by sportsmen’s groups, assures access for hunters and anglers, while SCORE seeks to improve habitat. Together, these bills assure a bright future for American sportsmen and women.

“The SCORE Act has major implications for wildlife habitat conservation in the United States and provides vital funding for partnership efforts to preserve and safeguard America’s outdoor traditions,” said Howard Vincent, president and CEO of Pheasants Forever, Inc.“Pheasants Forever and its members urge Congress to swiftly pass this bipartisan legislation for our nation’s wild places, wildlife, and all who enjoy it.”

Beaver, UT -(AmmoLand.com)- You could see as many as 100 mountain goats on Aug. 8. And you might not need binoculars to see them.

At some past viewing events, goats have gotten as close as 35 feet to those viewing them. On Aug. 8, the Division of Wildlife Resources will host its annual Goat Watch on the Tushar Mountains east of Beaver.

The event is free.

The trip will begin at 8 a.m. at the convenience store at the bottom of Exit 109 off Interstate 15. (Exit 109 is the exit on the south side of Beaver.)

From there, participants will caravan to the top of the Tushar Mountains. When you reach the top, you’ll be close to 11,500 feet above sea level. Lynn Chamberlain, regional conservation outreach manager for the DWR, says the view from the top of the Tushars is amazing.

“You can see all of southern Utah,” he says. “And we can almost always find the goats.”

If binoculars or spotting scopes are needed, Chamberlain will have some you can borrow. But if you have your own viewing equipment, please bring it.

Chamberlain also encourages you to bring water, a hat, a jacket and a sack lunch. It’s also a good idea to travel in a vehicle that has high ground clearance.

“The road can be rocky towards the top,” he says.

If you can’t attend the Aug. 8 event, DWR staff and equipment will be at the same viewing site on Aug. 6 and Aug. 7, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days.

“The Paiute ATV Festival will be held during those days,” Chamberlain says. “The Paiute ATV trail is close to the viewing area.”

Chamberlain says DWR staff will be on hand to answer questions and help festival participants see the sheep.

“If you can’t attend the goat watch on Aug. 8,” he says, “drop by the viewing site between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Aug. 6 or Aug. 7. Viewing should be great then too.”

A unique area

In addition to seeing the mountain goats, attending the viewing event will allow you to explore the alpine-tundra ecosystem in which the goats live. Found only above the timberline at high elevations, it’s an ecosystem that’s uncommon in southern Utah.

Chamberlain says unique animals live in this alpine-tundra terrain, including yellow-bellied marmots and pika.

“These high-elevation areas get extremely cold in the winter,” he says. “To survive, the animals have adapted some interesting behaviors.”

For more information about the goat watching event, call the DWR’s Southern Region office at 435-865-6100.

About the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR)

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources (DNR). In addition to managing and protecting Utah’s wildlife, we manage hunting and fishing opportunities within the state.

Salt Lake City, UT -(AmmoLand.com)- The number of cougars and bobcats taken during Utah’s upcoming hunting and trapping seasons should be similar to the number taken this past season.

Starting July 22, all of the Division of Wildlife Resources’ cougar and furbearer recommendations should be available online. DWR biologists will also present the recommendations at an upcoming series of public Regional Advisory Council meetings.

Learn more, share your ideas

After you’ve reviewed the ideas online, you can let your Regional Advisory Council members know your thoughts by attending your upcoming RAC meeting or by sending an email to them.

RAC chairmen will share the input they receive with members of the Utah Wildlife Board. The board will meet in Salt Lake City on Aug. 27 to approve rules for Utah’s 2015–2016 cougar and furbearer hunting and trapping seasons.

The group each RAC member represents (sportsman, non-consumptive, etc.) is listed under each person’s e-mail address. You should direct your e-mail to the people on the RAC who represent your interest.

Cougar and bobcat proposals

Based on data collected from hunters and trappers, it looks like cougars and bobcats are doing well in Utah. Because the populations are doing well, DWR biologists are recommending hunting and trapping rules that are similar to last season.

Leslie McFarlane, game mammals coordinator for the DWR, says hunters took 330 cougars during the state’s 2014–2015 season. For the 2015–2016 season, biologists are recommending a slight decrease in the number of permits offered for limited-entry cougar units. They’re also proposing a slight increase in the number of cougars to be taken on harvest-objective units.

“If our proposals are approved,” she says, “the number of cougars taken should be very similar to the number taken this past season.”

The bobcat rules biologists are recommending are identical to last season. Each trapper and hunter would be limited to not more than six permits. Utah’s bobcat hunting and trapping season would run from Nov. 18, 2015 to Feb. 7, 2016.

During the 2014–2015 season, trappers and hunters took a total of 2,919 bobcats in Utah.

About the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR)

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources (DNR). In addition to managing and protecting Utah’s wildlife, we manage hunting and fishing opportunities within the state.

Brent Stettler, regional conservation outreach manager for the DWR, says plans that guide the management of deer in southeastern Utah will expire soon. Before biologists revise the plans, they want to hear from you.

“Whether you hunt deer or not, almost everyone has a stake in how deer and other wildlife are managed,” Stettler says. “If you have comments, ideas or proposals for managing deer in southeastern Utah, DWR biologists want to hear from you.”

The DWR will offer an open house in each county in southeastern Utah. Stettler says all of the open houses will be informal and unstructured.

“We want to give you a chance to have a face-to-face conversation with the people who manage the deer herd closest to your home,” he says. “You can come at any time and leave whenever you want.”

As they revise the deer plans, biologists will consider the ideas and proposals you share. If you can’t attend one of the open houses, you can still provide your comments by emailing them to Guy Wallace, regional wildlife manager, at guywallace@utah.gov.

All of the open houses will run from 6:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. They’ll be held on the following dates and at the following locations:

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources (DNR). In addition to managing and protecting Utah’s wildlife, we manage hunting and fishing opportunities within the state.